Gary Payton II, the defensive dynamo known for his relentless energy and impact off the bench, has signed with WME for representation, marking a new chapter in his off-court career. He was previously repped by Goodwin Sports Management.

Affectionately dubbed “The Mitten” — a nod to his Hall of Fame father, Gary Payton — Payton II has carved out his own niche in the NBA through elite perimeter defense, hustle plays, and a championship-winning stint with the Golden State Warriors in 2022. His journey has been anything but linear: after going undrafted in 2016, he bounced between G League stints and short-term NBA contracts before earning his role in Golden State’s rotation with tenacity and high-IQ play.

Beyond the hardwood, Payton has also made headlines for his advocacy work in support of children with learning disabilities, sharing his own experiences with dyslexia and ADHD to help reduce stigma and increase awareness.

Now with WME in his corner, Payton II seems poised to expand his presence beyond basketball — whether that’s in media, activism, or entrepreneurial ventures — all with the same defensive edge he brings to the game.